After the Second World War a supposed “consensus” developed throughout British politics. In February 1954, ‘The Economist’ invented a new word - “Butskellism”. The magazine thought that the policies of the Exchequer of the day, the Conservative R.A. Butler, were so similar to those of his Labour predecessor, Hugh Gaitskell, that they had been devised by a “Mr. Butskell” (Boxer 2010,38). This statement shows that even the people at the time thought of a consensus in British politics. [...]
Table of Contents
- I. Introduction
- II. What is a "Consensus"?
- III. What is the "Post-War Consensus"?
- III.1. Beginning
- III.2. Themes
- III.2.1 Mixed economy
- III.2.2 Welfare
- III.2.3 Conciliation of the trade unions (TUC)
- III.3. End of the "post-war Consensus"
- IV. Critiques on the Consensus
- V. Importance of the "Consensus" for the understanding of British Politics
Objectives and Key Themes
This essay aims to investigate the existence of the "Post-War Consensus" in British politics and assess its significance for understanding British political development. The author intends to define "consensus," trace the origins and themes of the purported "Post-War Consensus," and analyze its lasting impact on British politics.
- Definition and application of the term "consensus" in political science.
- Origins and development of the "Post-War Consensus" in post-WWII Britain.
- Key themes of the "Post-War Consensus," including economic policies and welfare initiatives.
- Assessment of the level of agreement and its impact on governmental policy.
- The enduring legacy and relevance of the "Post-War Consensus" for contemporary British politics.
Chapter Summaries
I. Introduction: This introductory chapter sets the stage by introducing the concept of the "Post-War Consensus" in British politics and its influence on contemporary understandings of the period. The author highlights the apparent consensus observed even at the time and proposes to investigate the actual existence of this consensus and its implications for the study of British politics. The chapter lays out the essay's structure and objectives, outlining the author's intention to explore the definition of "consensus," the origins of the "Post-War Consensus," its key themes, and its continuing relevance to British politics. The author clearly states their aim to determine if a "Post-War Consensus" truly existed and its significance for shaping our understanding of modern British politics.
II. What is a "Consensus"?: This chapter delves into the core definition of "consensus," tracing its etymology from the Latin "consentire" to its political implications. The chapter examines various interpretations of "consensus" within political science, highlighting the work of scholars like Paul Addison and Kavanagh & Morris, who offer different perspectives on the concept's application in political analysis. It emphasizes both the broader agreement on overarching principles and the continuity of policy across different administrations as key elements of a political consensus. The chapter concludes by establishing a framework for understanding "consensus" that will inform the subsequent analysis of the "Post-War Consensus."
III. What is the "Post-War Consensus"?: This chapter delves into the complexities of the "Post-War Consensus," acknowledging the varying interpretations and debates surrounding its existence. It examines different understandings of agreement, differentiating between institutionalized consultation and the range of actual policies pursued. The chapter then proceeds to explore the origins of the concept, examining the role of World War II, the establishment of the coalition government, and the post-war economic and social context. The chapter considers various factors influencing the emergence of the "Consensus," including the need for a strong post-war Britain, public opinion shifts toward egalitarianism, and the influence of the Bretton-Woods system and Keynesian economics. The role of civil servants in maintaining continuity is also discussed. This sets the stage for the detailed examination of the themes within this proposed consensus.
Keywords
Post-War Consensus, British Politics, Consensus Definition, Keynesianism, Beveridge Report, Welfare State, Mixed Economy, Trade Unions, Full Employment, Butskellism.
Frequently Asked Questions: A Comprehensive Language Preview
What is the overall subject of this text?
This text is a comprehensive language preview of an essay investigating the existence and significance of the "Post-War Consensus" in British politics. It provides a table of contents, objectives and key themes, chapter summaries, and keywords.
What topics are covered in the Table of Contents?
The table of contents includes an introduction, a definition of "consensus," a detailed examination of the "Post-War Consensus" including its origins and key themes (mixed economy, welfare, and the role of trade unions), critiques of the consensus, and finally, the importance of the consensus for understanding British politics.
What are the main objectives and key themes of the essay?
The essay aims to define "consensus," trace the origins and themes of the "Post-War Consensus," and analyze its lasting impact on British politics. Key themes include the definition and application of "consensus," the origins and development of the "Post-War Consensus," its key economic and welfare policies, assessment of the level of agreement and its impact on policy, and its enduring legacy.
What is covered in each chapter?
Chapter I (Introduction): Introduces the "Post-War Consensus" and outlines the essay's structure and objectives. Chapter II ("What is a Consensus?"): Defines "consensus" and examines different interpretations within political science. Chapter III ("What is the Post-War Consensus?"): Explores the complexities of the "Post-War Consensus," its origins, and key themes. Further chapters cover critiques of the consensus and its importance for understanding British politics.
What are the key themes within the "Post-War Consensus"?
Key themes of the "Post-War Consensus" include a mixed economy, welfare initiatives, and the conciliation of trade unions (TUC). The text also explores the role of Keynesian economics and the impact of the Beveridge Report.
What keywords are associated with this text?
Keywords include Post-War Consensus, British Politics, Consensus Definition, Keynesianism, Beveridge Report, Welfare State, Mixed Economy, Trade Unions, Full Employment, and Butskellism.
Who might find this text useful?
This text would be useful for students and researchers studying British political history and the post-war period. It provides a structured overview and could be used for academic analysis of the themes discussed.
What is the intended audience for this text preview?
The intended audience is primarily academic, geared toward those conducting research or writing essays on the Post-War Consensus in British politics.
Where can I find the full essay?
The provided text is a preview only. The location of the full essay is not specified in this preview.
What is "Butskellism"?
While not explicitly defined in this preview, "Butskellism" is mentioned as a keyword, suggesting it's a significant concept within the context of the Post-War Consensus in British politics. Further research would be needed for a precise definition.
- Quote paper
- Andreas Michaelis (Author), 2013, The "post-war consensus" and its meaning for our understanding of British politics, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/273550
